Mike Wolfe, best known as the co-star of American Pickers, has long been passionate about uncovering hidden treasures and preserving America’s history. Beyond the hit TV show, Wolfe has dedicated himself to several passion projects that reflect his love for vintage artifacts, historic preservation, and community revitalization read more…
Mike Wolfe’s Key Passion Projects
1. Antique Archaeology
Wolfe’s love for antiques led him to open Antique Archaeology, a specialty store with locations in LeClaire, Iowa, and Nashville, Tennessee. The shops feature unique finds from his picking adventures, offering everything from vintage signs to rare collectibles.
2. Historic Preservation & Restoration
Wolfe is deeply committed to saving historic buildings. He has purchased and restored multiple properties, including:
- The Marathon Motor Works Building mike wolfe passion projec (Nashville, TN) – A former car factory turned into a hub for small businesses.
- The Columbia Motors Building (Columbia, TN) – Restored to honor its automotive history.
- The Two Lanes Guesthouse mike wolfe passion proje (LeClaire, IA) – A boutique motel celebrating Americana and vintage aesthetics.
3. Two Lanes (YouTube & Lifestyle Brand)
Through his Two Lanes brand, Wolfe explores America’s backroads, documenting forgotten stories and hidden gems. His YouTube channel features road trips, restoration projects, and interviews with collectors.
4. Advocating for Small Towns
Wolfe actively supports rural communities by promoting small businesses and encouraging economic growth through heritage tourism.
FAQs
1. What is Mike Wolfe’s main passion outside of American Pickers?
Wolfe is deeply passionate about historic preservation, restoring old buildings, and documenting America’s forgotten stories through his Two Lanes project.
2. Where are Antique Archaeology stores located?
- LeClaire, Iowa (109 N. Cody Road)
- Nashville, Tennessee (1300 Clinton St., Suite 140)
3. What buildings has Mike Wolfe restored?
Some notable restorations include:
- The Marathon Motor Works Building (Nashville)
- The Columbia Motors Building (Tennessee)
- The Two Lanes Guesthouse (Iowa)
4. What is Two Lanes about?
Two Lanes is Wolfe’s YouTube channel and lifestyle brand focused on road trips, history, and Americana. It highlights small-town stories, restoration projects, and unique finds.
5. Does Mike Wolfe still pick for antiques?
Yes! Wolfe continues to hunt for rare items, both for his stores and personal collection, often sharing his adventures on social media and Two Lanes.
6. How does Mike Wolfe support small towns?
He invests in historic properties, promotes local businesses, and uses his platform to draw attention to rural America’s cultural heritage.
7. Can fans visit Wolfe’s restored properties?
Some locations, like Antique Archaeology and the Two Lanes Guesthouse, are open to the public. Others, like private restoration projects, may not be accessible.
8. What’s next for Mike Wolfe?
He continues expanding Two Lanes, restoring historic buildings, and advocating for preservation—keeping America’s past alive for future generations.
Conclusion
Mike Wolfe’s passion projects go far beyond picking antiques—they’re about preserving history, revitalizing communities, and sharing America’s untold stories. Whether through his shops, restorations, or digital content, Wolfe remains a dedicated guardian of the past.

